Dispersing funds for those in need

From left:Christine Lai, Christina Calabro and Stephanie Bilenker.

Western Connecticut Association for Human Rights, WeCAHR, recently presented a $30,000 donation to Christine Lai, executive Director of Special Education Legal Fund. WeCAHR, formed in 1977 and closed on June 30, 2023, provided direct and indirect advocacy for individuals with disabilities and their families in the Greater Danbury area.  It serviced all ages, disabilities and socioeconomic groups. Throughout its existence, WeCAHR collaborated with community organizations, developed valuable partnerships with government agencies and championed the rights of people with disabilities.

“During the dissolving process, WeCAHR dispersed its remaining funds to other 501c3 organizations and chose Special Education Legal Fund as one of the beneficiaries of this gesture as we believed their mission strongly aligned with our Child/Family Advocacy Program,” explained former WeCAHR Executive Director Christina Calabro.

“Special Education Legal Fund ensures every student has access to the special education services students are entitled to under the law,” said Christine Lai, co-founder and executive director. “We are very grateful for WeCAHR, the Board of Directors, and Christina Calabro’s generosity in providing legal support for students in Danbury and the surrounding communities with special education needs, ensuring they receive the support, accommodations, and resources necessary to thrive academically.”

Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.) was founded in 2018 to level the playing field for families in need with children in the special education system. S.E.L.F. provides resources, knowledge and support to parents, guardians, and self-advocates in order to facilitate the successful navigation of the special education process. S.E.L.F. facilitates communication between stakeholders through an emphasis on knowledge, understanding, collaborative decision-making, and proactive advocacy. Special Education Legal Fund supports families who have fallen through the cracks in the special education system and endeavors to help resourced-challenged families.